Integrated automated vehicle analysis

ABSTRACT

An integrated highly automated vehicle analysis system employs a technician terminal for displaying a plurality of inspection screens, and for entering inspection results. The technician terminal generates an inspection report after the inspection results have been input. A point-of-sale terminal is used to generate a cost estimate report in response to the generation of the inspection report and also generates an invoice report. The system includes a plurality of databases, including an inspection guideline database, a specifications database (containing vehicle specifications), a customer/inspection database (containing prior inspection records), and a parts catalog database (containing part numbers and part costs).

This application is a Continuation-in-Part of U.S. patent applicationSer. No. 08/372,002, filed Jan. 12, 1995 for INTEGRATED AUTOMATEDVEHICLE ANALYSIS, incorporated herein by reference.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to vehicle analysis, and more particularlyto integrated highly automated systems and procedures for diagnosis,cost estimating and invoicing in the servicing of self-propelledmotorized vehicles.

The servicing of modern vehicles, internal combustion engine automobilesin particular, has become extremely complicated and, to some extent,virtually impossible for some persons to perform. This problem arisesbecause of the complexity of the vehicle, the inadequacy and rapidchanges in available specifications on the vehicle and the changes inregulatory requirements applicable to the vehicle. Further, thecapability of some diagnostic equipment used in diagnosing and servicingvehicles has not kept pace with changes in the vehicles. Added to thesecomplications is a growing scarcity of personnel trained in servicingsuch complicated equipment. For example, whereas it has been possible toservice many vehicles with internal combustion engines by checking thecondition of ignition parts, carburetor adjustments, or electricalsystems, and replacing some or all parts, the newer vehicles haveengines that do not have the older conventional ignition parts, the fuelsupply is not easily adjusted, and the electrical system is sometimesseparately controlled by its own built-in computer. Electronic systemsalso now control systems within the vehicle such as the air conditioner,the exhaust system, the suspension and the braking system. Somegovernmental regulatory agencies prohibit some adjustments to criticalparts, or have established operating conditions for vehicle engines thatrequire adjustments to an engine's operation that can only beaccomplished with special test equipment.

Personnel that service vehicles also may contribute to servicingproblems. Often because the environment of an automotive repair shop isquite noisy and otherwise distracting, and because the techniciansworking therein are under a great deal of pressure to quickly inspectand diagnose vehicles, important diagnostic steps may be skipped orincorrectly carried out. This can result in needed repairs beingoverlooked, resulting in potentially dangerous conditions for the driverand passengers of the vehicle. This is of particular concern whencritical safety systems of the vehicle are involved, such as thevehicle's braking system or suspension. Other systems, such as theexhaust system and the air conditioning system, if not inspectedproperly, can lead to unscheduled maintenance or repair.

The dissemination of original vehicle specifications, changes to suchspecifications, and other pertinent information relating to specificvehicles has also become problematic. It is difficult to get the latestinformation to the vehicle owner and to get the latest information tothe vehicle service agency. It may also be difficult to get the personto whom the information is sent to read and apply the information to thediagnostic and servicing function.

It has long been known to provide paper manuals for vehiclespecifications, repair instructions and, more recently, to provide thespecifications and instructions in microfilm systems. Both paper manualsand microfilm systems require updating by physical replacement ofoutdated information and therefore have the problem of being dependent,to some extent, upon the interest and motivation of the receiver of theinformation. Furthermore, it is not uncommon for errors to occur in theupdating of paper manuals or microfilm systems, resulting in outdated ormissing information.

Electronic engine analyzers are also known, some of which are generalpurpose for use with many vehicles and some of which are specific to aparticular manufacturer's vehicle. Some manufacturers have builtmicroprocessors into the vehicle so as to provide part or all of theengine analysis function. Some engine analyzers merely measure existingconditions in a vehicle and are unable to compare the measuredconditions to a reference standard that defines what the measuredcondition should be. Other analyzers provide complete diagnosticcapabilities including advising the operator on what corrections shouldbe made.

Once a vehicle has been diagnosed, the diagnosis is generally reviewedby a customer and a determination is made by the customer as to whatrepairs he or she wishes to have performed. A service advisor ormechanic may assist the customer in the review and may advise thecustomer as to which of the indicated repairs are needed, or required,and which are merely suggested. The determination of which repairs areneeded and which are merely suggested is highly subjective and widediscretion is exercised by the mechanic or service advisor. Thisdiscretion, and the desire on the part of some service advisors toincrease the to cost of vehicle service (and therefore their profits) bycharacterizing some repairs as required when they are in fact merelysuggested, leads to discomfort on the part of the customer, whichproblematically breeds ill will and dissatisfaction.

Before repairs are performed on a vehicle, many states require that thecustomer be provided with a written estimate of repair costs, and thatthe actual costs of performed repairs not exceed the estimate by morethan a prescribed amount, e.g., ten percent. There is a great deal ofdiscretion on the part of the service advisor in generating theestimate, which results in under and over estimation of costs. If thecosts are under estimated, state law may prohibit the repair shop fromcharging the customer a correct amount. If the costs are over estimated,the customer may be subject to over charging. The problem of overestimating and under estimating may be compounded due tomiscommunications between the technician or mechanic performing thevehicle diagnosis and the person who prepares the estimate. Thediagnosis is generally communicated to the customer and the personpreparing the estimate via a paper report that is hand prepared by thetechnician. Such hand-prepared reports are subject to numerous errors,both in entering the information and in interpreting the enteredinformation.

After repairs are performed, it is further necessary for the repair shopto generate an invoice reciting the charges assessed to the customer forservices and parts. Such invoice, as mentioned above, must often notexceed the estimate by more than a legally prescribed amount, e.g., tenpercent. Preparation of the invoice is generally performed manually.Verification that the invoice does not exceed the estimate by more thanthe prescribed amount is also performed manually. Unfortunately,manually prepared invoices and other reports are error prone and consumesignificant amounts of time for those preparing such invoices andreports.

From the above, it is evident that improvements are needed in the waythat vehicles are diagnosed, serviced and invoiced.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The present invention advantageously addresses the needs above as wellas other needs by providing a vehicle analysis system and method forintegrated highly automated diagnosis, cost estimation and invoicing inthe servicing of self-propelled motorized vehicles.

In one embodiment, the invention can be characterized as an integratedautomotive diagnosis, repair and invoicing system. The system employs atechnician terminal for displaying a plurality of inspection screens,and for entering inspection results. A preferred implementation of thetechnician terminal includes a video display and touch screen coupled toa computer through a spread spectrum frequency hopping radio channel.The technician terminal generates an inspection report after theinspection results have been input. A point-of-sale terminal is used togenerate a cost estimate report in response to the generation of theinspection report and also generates and prints an invoice report. Thepreparation of such reports--inspection, cost-estimate and invoice--ismade easy through the use of several databases. An inspection guidelinesdatabase, for example, is made up of inspection guidelines accessible,e.g., from the inspection screens. A specification database containsvehicle specifications. The technician terminal compares thespecifications from the specification database with the inspectionresults in generating the inspection report. A customer/inspectiondatabase contains inspection records made in response to the generatingof the inspection report. A parts catalog database includes part numbersand part costs.

In another embodiment, the invention can be characterized as a method.The method includes selecting a make, model and year of a vehicle usinga first computer system; retrieving a measurement/specification for thevehicle from a measurements/specifications database; and prompting auser of the first computer system to conduct an inspection of thevehicle and to enter an inspection result into the first computersystem. The method also includes comparing the inspection result withthe retrieved measurement/specification and determining whether theinspection result is outside a first prescribed tolerance of themeasurement/specification. Next, the method includes generating aninspection report that indicates whether the inspection result isoutside the first prescribed tolerance of the measurement/specification,and communicating the inspection report to a second computer system.Within the second computer system a cost estimate report is generated inthe event the inspection result is outside the first prescribedtolerance of the measurement/specification. The cost estimate reportindicates an expected cost of repair. The method further includesgenerating, within the second computer system, an invoice report inresponse to the cost estimate report. The invoice report indicates acost charged for repair of the vehicle.

It is therefore a feature of the invention to provide a vehicle analysissystem and method for use in servicing motorized vehicles that providesfor integrated highly automated diagnosis, cost estimation andinvoicing.

It is another feature of the invention to provide such vehicle analysissystem wherein an inspection report is generated in response toinspection results that are entered into a technician terminal.

It is a supplementary feature of the invention to automatically generatethe inspection report based on discrepancies between the inspectionresults and vehicle specifications.

It is a further feature of the invention to generate a cost estimatebased on the inspection report.

It is an additional feature of the invention to generate and print aninvoice based on the cost estimate.

It is an added feature of the invention, in one embodiment, to provideinspection guidelines that are accessible from inspection screens.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The above and other aspects, features and advantages of the presentinvention will be more apparent from the following more particulardescription thereof, presented in conjunction with the followingdrawings wherein:

FIG. 1 is schematic diagram of components employed in one embodiment ofthe present invention;

FIG. 2 is a block diagram of the modules employed in a software systemutilized in the embodiment of FIG. 1;

FIG. 3 is a flow chart showing the steps traversed by a systeminformation module employed in the embodiment of FIG. 1;

FIGS. 4A and 4B are a flow chart showing the steps traversed by a brakeinspection module employed in the embodiment of FIG. 1;

FIG. 5 is a flow chart showing the steps traversed by a user inputsub-module which is executed at each user input screen of the modulesshown in FIGS. 4A, 4B, 6A, 6B, 7A and 7B;

FIGS. 6A and 6B are a flow chart showing the steps traversed by aexhaust inspection module employed in the embodiment of FIG. 1;

FIGS. 7A and 7B are a flow chart showing the steps traversed by asuspension inspection module employed in the embodiment of FIG. 1;

FIG. 8 is a flow chart showing the steps traversed by an inspectionreport module employed in the embodiment of FIG. 1;

FIG. 9 is a flow chart showing the steps traversed by a cost estimatemodule employed in the embodiment of FIG. 1;

FIG. 10 is a flow chart showing the steps traversed by an invoicingmodule employed in the embodiment of FIG. 1;

FIG. 11 is a perspective view of a technician terminal shownschematically FIG. 1.

FIG. 12 is a perspective view of an alternative technician terminal tothe technician terminal shown schematically in FIG. 1;

FIG. 13 is a perspective view of a preferred implementation of thetechnician terminal employing a wireless remote interface;

FIG. 14 is a schematic view of the dual-action digital calipers shownschematically in FIG. 1 as they are used to measure brake rotorthickness; and

FIG. 15 is a schematic view of the dual-action digital calipers of FIG.14 as they are used to measure the inner diameter of a brake drum.

Corresponding reference characters indicate corresponding componentsthroughout the several views of the drawings.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

The following description of the presently contemplated best mode ofpracticing the invention is not to be taken in a limiting sense, but ismade merely for the purpose of describing the general principles of theinvention. The scope of the invention should be determined withreference to the claims.

Referring first to FIG. 1, a schematic diagram is shown of componentsemployed in one embodiment of an integrated highly automated vehiclediagnosis, estimating, and invoicing system 10. A technician terminal 12is coupled to a measurement and instructions printer 14 and to a digitalmeasuring instrument 16. A recommended/suggested services printer 18 isalso coupled to the technician terminal 12, as is a point of saleterminal 20, and a point of sale printer 22. Note that the measurementand instructions printer 16, the recommended/suggested services printer18 and the point of sale printer 22 are described herein as beingseparate printers. However, it will be understood by one skilled in theart that the functions of these three printers 16, 18, 22, as describedherein, may in practice be carried out either by three separate printersor by two or fewer printers possibly connected to the first and secondpersonal computers through a network. In particular, the measurementsand instructions printer 16 and the suggested/recommended servicesprinter 18 are preferably a single printer carrying out the functions ofthese printers 16, 18.

Also coupled to the technician terminal 12 are a customer/inspectiondatabase 24, a measurements/specifications database 26, a shop manualdatabase 28, a parts catalog database 30, and an inspection guidelinesdatabase 32.

The technician terminal 12 includes a video display 34, such as acathode ray tube (CRT), a touch screen interface 36, a first personalcomputer 38 and a ruggedized housing 40. The first personal computer 38is modified with an inspection program that causes the first personalcomputer 38 to display a sequence of input screens on the first videodisplay 34. These inspection screens are explained in more detailhereinbelow, however, it is important to note that the sequence of inputscreens requires that a technician sequentially enter data for each of aplurality of sequential inspection steps, such that the techniciancannot move to a subsequent inspection step without first inputtinginformation from a current inspection step. As a result, the technicianis discouraged from skipping steps in the inspection.

The technician inputs results from each inspection step via the touchscreen interface 36, which is coupled to the first personal computer 38and to the first video display 34. As a result, it is preferablyunnecessary for the technician to utilize a keyboard or other inputdevice when inputting inspection results--advantageously avoidingproblems associated with keyboard use, such as limited space;sensitivity to dirt, grease and smoke; and susceptibility to damage bytools and vehicle parts as they are moved from location to location. Inorder to input inspection results, for example, the technician may bepresented with an inspection category, such as, a "parking brakeinspection" and may further be presented with the option of indicatingthe parking brake is okay, or that the parking is "inoperative" or has"excessive travel." The technician selects the condition of theinspected component, e.g., the parking brake, by pointing to arespective area on the first video display 34 at which the condition orproblem is printed, e.g., "excessive travel," "inoperative" or "okay."In this way, the technician is able to specify a condition for eachinspection category in each inspection step without the need for acomputer keyboard or other such input device, and further, without theneed for typing out the results of the inspection. This feature of thepresent embodiment offers several advantages, including ease of use forthe technician and greater consistency in the responses given in each ofthe inspection categories (because the selectable conditions arepredefined).

Note that conditions may also be specified by selecting a "keyboard" onthe first video display 34. This is done by touching an area of thefirst video display displaying the word "keyboard," which causes theinspection program to display a QWERTY keyboard (i.e., a standardkeyboard layout--QWERTY representing the first six letters of the toprow of keys on a standard keyboard) on the first video display 34. Thetechnician then specifies the condition by sequentially touching areasof the first video display 34 associated with letters of words that heor she wishes to use in specifying the condition. A "space bar" is alsoprovided as part of the displayed keyboard to put spaces between thewords.

The first personal computer 38 is located within the ruggedized housing40, which may also include drawers 42, cabinets 44 and other storagecompartments for storage of tools and/or the digital measuringinstrument 16. Further, the ruggedized housing 40 is preferably mountedon wheels 46, or casters, such that it can easily be rolled from onelocation to another by a person. As a result, it is possible to use thetechnician terminal to conduct inspections on a plurality of vehicles ata plurality of locations within a vehicle repair facility.

One type of inspection that is facilitated by the present embodiment isa measurement of the brake rotor or drum condition. This inspection isperformed using the digital measuring instrument 16, which in onevariation of the present embodiment is a dual-action digital caliper.The dual-action digital caliper is coupled through an RS-232 interfaceon the first personal computer 38 and thereby supplies the firstpersonal computer 38 with data indicative of the brake rotor and/or drummeasurements. The dual-action digital caliper is described in furtherdetail hereinbelow.

In practice, when a "brake measurements" inspection screen is displayed,the technician is prompted to input the measurements of a brake rotorand/or drum. In order to input the thickness of the brake rotors, firstand second contact pins of the dual-action digital caliper are placedagainst the opposing surfaces of the brake rotor and are closed tightlythereagainst. The second contact pin (or second point) is slidablerelative to the first contact pin (or first point), thereby facilitatingits tightening against the opposing surfaces. A linear encoder ispositioned along a rail along which the second contact pin slides. Whenthe dual-action digital caliper is closed against the opposing surfacesof the brake rotor, the linear encoder generates a distance signalindicative of the position of the second contact pin (second point)relative to the first contact pin (first point) and the technicianpresses a button on the dual-action digital caliper, which sends themeasurement taken to the inspection program in the technician terminal.The measurement is input into the "brake measurements" inspection screengenerated by the inspection program.

Similarly, the brake drum can be measured by placing third and fourthcontact pins (or third and fourth points) of the dual-action digitalcaliper against opposing interior annular surfaces of the drum. Thecaliper is opened against the interior annular surface of the drum untilthe contact pins (or points) tightly contact the annular surface. Oncethe dual-action digital caliper is tightly against the interior annularsurface of the brake drum, the button is again pushed and themeasurement indicated by the linear encoder is sent to the inspectionprogram within first personal computer and input to the "breakmeasurements" inspection screen.

Note that, in practice, the technician inputs the make, model and yearof the vehicle being inspected prior to conducting the inspection. Theinspection program accesses the measurements/specifications database 26in order to determine the configuration of braking equipment for thevehicle being inspected. As a result, the inspection program will onlyrequest measurements for rotors and/or brake drums as appropriate forthe particular make, model and year of vehicle on which the inspectionis being conducted.

From any of the inspection screens, the technician may select an area ofthe first video display labeled "Uniform Inspection Guidelines" or"Standards of Service." By selecting this area of the screen theinspection program is signaled to access the inspection guidelinesdatabase 32 and to display appropriate inspection guidelines (aspromulgated, e.g., under the Maintenance Awareness Program (MAP)) on thefirst video display 34. The inspection guidelines retrieved from theinspection guidelines database 32 are automatically selected based onthe particular inspection screen at which "Uniform InspectionGuidelines" is selected. In this way, the technician is able to viewcontext-sensitive inspection guidelines for the area of the vehiclebeing inspected without the need for the technician to leave theinspection area to consult printed manuals containing inspectionguidelines. The ease with which context-sensitive inspection guidelinescan be retrieved serves as an incentive for the technician to consultthe inspection guidelines and therefore to conduct a more thorough,complete and uniform inspection of the vehicle.

Upon completion of the inspection, the technician may touch an area ofthe first video display 34 displaying the word "print." In response totouching the area displaying the word "print," referred to herein as theprint "button," a recommended/suggested services report is printed fromthe recommended/suggested services printer 18 and is also stored in thecustomer/inspection database 24. The report contains a list ofrecommended services, including the part, the service, the failure andan explanation of the failure, and a diagram of the effected systemwithin the vehicle such that a customer can easily determine what partand/or service it is that is recommended or required. A notation is madeon the recommended/suggested services report that the required servicesmust be performed and the suggested services should be performed.

Determination as to whether a particular service is recommended orrequired is made automatically by the inspection program based on theinspection results, and the inspection guidelines retrieved from theinspection guidelines database 32, and measurements and specificationsretrieved from the measurements/specifications database 26. For example,required services may include those services or parts which relate toaspects of the inspection which were out of specification or tolerance.The suggested services, in contrast, may relate to those aspects of theinspection which indicate parts or services that are still withinspecification, but that are within a prescribed tolerance, i.e., apercentage, e.g., fifteen percent, or a prescribed amount of being outof specification. For example, when brake pad measurements are taken, ifthe brake pads have less than one or two thirty-seconds of an inchthickness, they are suggested for replacement. Each suggested orrequired service or part repair/replacement is automatically accompaniedby a detailed standardized explanation of the "condition" selected bythe technician during the inspection.

Based on the recommended/suggested services report, which is typicallyhanded to the customer (or vehicle owner), the customer is able todecide whether he/she wishes to have the suggested services and/or partreplacements performed and whether he/she desires to have the requiredservices and/or part replacements performed.

Along with the printing of the recommended/suggested services report,the inspection report is communicated to the point of sale terminal 20,which is modified with a point of sale program. The point of saleterminal 20 employs a second personal computer, a second video displayand a keyboard, all of which are of conventional design. The point ofsale program is accessed by an operator of the point of sale terminal 20and an estimate of the cost of each of the needed services, bothrecommended and suggested, is generated and displayed on the secondvideo display. Furthermore, the parts catalog database 30 is accessed bythe point of sale terminal 20 and the cost of the parts needed for eachproposed repair is automatically retrieved. Based on the inspectionreport and on the estimated costs for each of the services and for eachof the parts, a cost estimate report is generated, stored in thecustomer/inspection database 24 and printed on the point of sale printer22. The cost estimate can easily be modified by the operator of thepoint of sale terminal in accordance with any discounts, servicepackages, or the like. Based on the printed cost estimate, the customerdecides what services he/she wishes to have performed. In this way, anaccurate cost estimate can be generated based directly on theinformation generated and stored as the inspection report.

Once the customer approves the work to be done, the technician returnsto the technician terminal from which he/she can access the partscatalog database 30, the shop manual database 28, and themeasurements/specifications database 26. These databases 20, 28, 26provide information relating to the particular make, model and year ofvehicle on which the inspection was performed. The shop manual database28 contains detailed illustrations and instructions to the technicianregarding how various repairs are to be performed and how variouscomponents of the vehicle are assembled and disassembled. For example,the shop manual database 28 may include an electronic version ofMITCHELL'S shop manual. The measurements/specifications database 26provides information to the technician regarding specifications for thevehicle being serviced. One example of a specifications database is a"Huth" card program, which includes specifications for bending customexhaust pipes. Another example of a specifications database, such as anelectronic version of CHILTON'S manual, specifies component tolerancesfor various system components within the vehicle, such as brake rotor ordrum tolerances. The parts catalog database 30 provides a list of partsand part numbers needed to perform the recommended/suggested servicesthat were approved by the customer and identified in the inspectionreport. In this way, the technician is able to access a shop manual, andretrieve part numbers and vehicle specifications without the need foraccessing printed manuals, which generally will not be locatedconveniently at the technician's work area where the vehicle is beinginspected and serviced. Furthermore, because the parts catalog database30 is automatically accessed by the inspection program, the techniciandoes not need to search for the appropriate parts number anddescriptions when performing approved repairs. Rather, the appropriatepart numbers and descriptions are automatically accessed for thetechnician, thereby speeding up the process of vehicle repair andreducing the possibility of error.

The measurements and specifications retrieved from themeasurements/specifications database 26, the shop manual informationretrieved from the shop manual database 28 and the parts informationretrieved from the parts catalog database 30 can be printed on themeasurements-specifications printer 14 located near the technicianterminal 12. The measurements/specifications printer 14 may be housedwithin the ruggedized housing 40 that houses the first personal computer38 and the first video display 34.

Once the repairs have been completed, the customer is directed to thepoint of sale terminal 20 whereat the cost estimate report is retrievedby the point of sale program. The cost of such repairs is automaticallycalculated by the second personal computer on the second video display.An invoice is generated by the point of sale program in response to theretained cost estimated report.

Once the invoice is generated, the operator of the point of saleterminal 20 directs the point of sale program (using appropriate keys onthe keyboard) to print an invoice report on the point of sale printer 22and to store the invoice in the customer/inspection database 24. Thepoint of sale printer 22 generates a printed invoice that indicates thetotal price to be paid by the customer. Additional features such ascheck verification, automatic withdrawal from debit accounts, and/orcredit card verification can also be integrated into the point of saleterminal 20. Such additional features as a part of a point of saleterminal are well known in the art and therefore are not described indetail herein.

As thus described, it is seen that the present embodiment is able tofacilitate the inspection of a vehicle and the generation of therecommended/suggested services report, the generation of a cost estimatefor recommended and suggested repairs, the repair of such vehicle, andthe generation of an accurate and detailed invoice.

The above description of the present embodiment described a singletechnician terminal coupled to (or networked with) a single point ofsale terminal. In one variation of the above embodiment, however, aplurality of technician terminals may be coupled to the single point ofsale terminal or to a plurality of such terminals. In another variation,a plurality of point of sale terminals may be coupled to a singletechnician terminal. In a further variation, only the technicianterminal may be utilized as a stand alone inspection station. Such standalone inspection station may or may not perform the functions of thepoint of sale terminal within the first computer system.

Another variation of the present embodiment includes a central terminalfrom which a plurality of point of sale terminals can be accessed. Thepoint of sale terminals can be located at remote locations, e.g., atdifferent shop locations, and can be accessed through, e.g., analogtelephone lines and modems. Upon accessing one of the point of saleterminals, the central terminal can be used to download inspectionreports from the customer/inspection database associated with theaccessed point of sale terminal. The central terminal can then be usedto perform statistical analyses, such as frequency of repair analysis,on the inspection reports.

Referring next to FIG. 2, a block diagram is shown of the modulesemployed in a software system utilized in the embodiment of FIG. 1. Thesoftware system is made up of the inspection program 200, the point ofsale programs 202, and a database program (or database "engine") foraccessing the shop manual database 28 and themeasurements/specifications database 26. As illustrated, the inspectionprogram 200 is made up of a main menu module 204, a brake inspectionmodule 206, a suspension inspection module 208, an exhaust inspectionmodule 210, an instructions module 212, a measurements module 214, aninspection report module 216, and a system manager module 218. The mainmenu module 204 provides a screen display from which the technician mayselect most of the other modules depicted in FIG. 2. Specifically, thetechnician may select the brake inspection module 206, the suspensioninspection module 208 or the exhaust inspection module 210 by touchingareas of the first video display 34 on which the respective modulesnames are printed. In addition, the measurements module 214, and theinstructions module 212 can be accessed by touching areas of the firstvideo display 34 on which the respective module names are printed. Themeasurements module 214 and the instruction module 212 interface withthe data base program so as to retrieve and display information from themeasurements/specifications database 26 and the "shop manual" database28. The inspection report module 216 and a system manager module 218 mayalso be accessed from the main menu module 204 in a manner similar tothat in which the previously described modules are accessed. Once amodule is selected from the main menu, control of the technicianterminal 34 is relinquished to the selected module.

With respect to the brake inspection module 206, the suspensioninspection module 208 and the exhaust inspection module 210, control ofthe terminal 34 involves the presentation of a sequence of inspectionscreens on the first video display 34 to the technician, and therequesting of various inspection information from the technician. Theinspection information is entered using the touch screen input device 36as described herein.

With respect to the inspection report module 216, an inspection reportis generated by the inspection program whenever the inspection reportmodule 216 is selected. The inspection report, described above, includessuggested and required repairs indicated by the brake inspection module206, the suspension inspection module 208 and/or the exhaust inspectionmodule 210.

The system manager module 218 provides for the configuration of varioussystem operations, and is typically not accessed by the technician on afrequent basis. In order to deter unauthorized access to the systemmanager module 218, a password is required.

The point of sale program 202 employs the cost estimate module 220 andthe invoice module 222. The cost estimate module 220 retrieves theinspection report generated by the inspection report module and combinesit with information from the databases, as described above, in order toproduce a proposed cost estimate for the required and suggestedservices. The operator of the point of sale terminal can then bepermitted to modify the proposed cost estimate by altering the prices ofservices or parts, and/or adding or subtracting required and/orsuggested services. Once an acceptable cost estimate is achieved, thecost estimate is printed out using the point of sale printer 22.

After all required and suggested services contained in the cost estimateare performed, the point of sale program 202 accesses the invoice module222, which retrieves the cost estimate generated by the cost estimatemodule 220 and prepares a final invoice in response thereto. Again, theoperator of the point of sale terminal 20 can be presented with theoption of modifying the proposed invoice, before the invoice is printed.Such modification may include services performed by the technician,which were not originally included in the cost estimate. The invoicemodule also checks for compliance with local and national laws withrespect to the invoice and its deviation from the cost estimatepresented to and agreed to by the customer.

As thus described, the various modules and programs of the presentembodiment are accessed by the technician at the technician terminal 12or the operator at the point of sale terminal 20. The modules interactwith one another so as to facilitate the inspection of the vehicle, thegeneration of the inspection report, the generation of the costestimate, provision of instructions and measurements to the technicianduring the repair and servicing of the vehicle, and the generation ofthe invoice from which the customer is billed.

Referring next to FIG. 3, a flow chart is shown of the steps traversedby a system manager module employed in the embodiment of FIG. 1.

Upon selection at the main menu (Block 300), the system manager moduleprompts (Block 302) the technician, or other user of the technicianterminal 12, to enter a password. The password is entered (Block 304) bythe technician and compared (Block 306) by the system manager modulewith the correct password. In the event the password is incorrect, thesystem manager module again prompts (Block 302) for the password. In theevent however, the password is correct, system information is displayed(Block 308) on the first video display 34 and the technician or otheruser is provided with the opportunity to enter changes (Block 310) tothe system information. As the information is entered into thetechnician terminal 12, the system manager module checks (Block 312) thevalidity of such changes. For example, the system manager module cancheck the appropriateness of such entries such as state, wherein a twoletter state abbreviation may be required, zip code, wherein theappropriateness of the zip code may be verified (and in one variation,cross checked with the city entered into the city field). The phonenumber can also be checked for validity. An additional parameter thatcan be verified is the selection of various "paths" or locations withinthe technician terminal 12 at which information is stored. This checkingis performed by verifying, e.g., that the paths in fact exist on a massstorage device such as a hard drive within the first computer system 38.If the information entered is invalid (Block 314), an error message isdisplayed (Block 316) on the first video display 34 and the opportunityis again presented (Block 310) for the technician or user to makechanges to the system information. The validity of this subsequentinformation is again verified (Block 312). If the information entered isvalid (Block 314), then the system manager module determines whetheradditional changes are needed (Block 318). This can be done by detectingwhether or not a "done" button, i.e., an area on the first video displayon which the word "done" is printed, has been touched. In the event the"done" button has been touched, any changes to the system informationare saved (Block 320) within the first personal computer 38 andexecution of the system manager module terminates (Block 322), returningcontrol to the main menu module. In the event the "done" button has notbeen depressed (Block 318), the system provides (Block 310) theopportunity for the technician or user to enter additional changes tothe system information, validity is checked (Block 312), and so forth(Blocks 314 through 322).

In this way, system information, i.e., configuration information) can beentered into the technician terminal of the present embodiment, and cansimilarly be modified.

Referring next to FIGS. 4A and 4B, a flow chart is shown of the stepstraversed by a brake inspection module employed in the embodiment ofFIG. 1. Upon the selection of the brake inspection module, the main menumodule transfers control of the technician terminal 12 to the brakeinspection module (Block 400, FIG. 4A). The brake inspection moduledisplays a screen requesting (Block 402) a customer name and technicianID for the brake inspection to be conducted.

This request for information, and all such information contained withinthe brake inspection module, the exhaust inspection module and thesuspension inspection module are performed in accordance with theinformation request routine (or user input routine) shown in FIG. 5.Thus, for example, when the name and technician ID are requested, aprompt is displayed (Block 500) on the first video display 34 and theopportunity for input by the technician is presented. In the event thetechnician inputs a customer name and technician ID (Block 502), thevalidity of that information is tested (Block 504) and if it is invalid,an error message is displayed (Block 506), with control returning to thetechnician opportunity for user input (Block 502).

After valid information is input into the user input routine the userinput routine continues to wait until the user selects either one of twoadditional options displayed on every user input screen. The first is"return to previous step". The "return to previous step" option, ifselected by the technician or user (Block 508), returns the control ofthe first personal computer to the previous step in the respectiveflowchart, e.g., the flowchart of FIGS. 4A and 4B. For example, if thetechnician or user presses the "return to previous step" button at thecustomer name and technician ID request screen (FIG. 4A, Block 402),control is returned to the main module (because there is no previousstep in the brake inspection module). The other option that isselectable by the technician or user is the "proceed to next step"option. When this option is selected (Block 510), a check is made (Block512) to see whether all needed information has been entered into thecurrent input screen. In the event that some information has not beenentered (Block 512), the opportunity for user input is again presented(Block 502). The "proceed to next step" option will continue to returnthe user to the user input opportunity (Block 512) until all informationneeded at the particular input screen being displayed has been entered.If the "proceed to next step" option is selected (Block 510) and allinformation needed at the user input screen has been entered (Block512), control passes to the next step in the flowchart, e.g., a customerquestionnaire screen (FIG. 4A, Block 404).

Note that all user input screens (in FIGS. 4A, 4B, 6A, 6B, 7A and 7B)function in accordance with the user input routine shown in FIG. 5, butfor the sake of conciseness, such detailed explanation of the user inputroutine, above, will not be repeated for each user input screendescribed below. It will be understood, however, by one skilled in theart that such user input routine, or a similar routine, will betraversed each time a user input screen (or inspection screen) ispresented.

Next, on the customer questionnaire screen (Block 404), variousquestions are presented to the technician, such as "noise is", andvarious responses are presented, such as "constant," "only whenbraking," "front," "rear," and "other". Each of these questions, whichrepresent possible customer complaints, is completed by the technicianbefore proceeding to the next user input screen. The next user inputscreen prompts the technician (Block 406) for the make, model and yearof the vehicle on which the inspection is to be performed. Following theselection of the make, model and year, information for the selectedmake, model and year is displayed (Block 408) on the first video display34, and the technician has the opportunity to determine whether thedisplayed make, model and year vehicle information matches the vehicleon which he/she intends to perform service. If the displayed vehicle isnot the vehicle on which the technician intends to perform service(Block 410), technician is again presented with the opportunity toselect the make, model and year of the vehicle (Block 406).

Note that in the event that the make, model and year of the vehicle onwhich service is to be performed is not available within the presentembodiment, the technician is provided with the opportunity to manuallyenter information on the vehicle.

Once the make, model and year information is selected and the technicianis satisfied that this is the correct vehicle type (Block 410), thetechnician is prompted (Block 412) to enter in the license plate numberand state, the odometer mileage, and the vehicle identification numberfor the vehicle on which the inspection is to be performed.

Note that the above-described screens (Blocks 402, 404, 406, 408, 412)may be displayed and responded to at the technician terminal 12, or,alternatively, may be displayed and responded to at the point of saleterminal 20. The point of sale terminal is preferably located near anarea where customers are allowed, such as in a customer lobby or at acashier's station, whereas the technician terminal 12 is preferablylocated in an area where customers are not allowed, i.e., a shop area.The inspection screens that follow (Blocks 414 et seq.) are preferablydisplayed and responded to at the technician terminal 12.

After the license plate, odometer and vehicle identification numberinformation is entered (Block 412), the first inspection screen ispresented to the technician (Block 414). This first inspection screenprompts the technician for information that the technician obtains aftertaking the vehicle on a test drive.

The first inspection screen also requests information on the brakepedal, the parking brake, the panel lights and the wheels of thevehicle. With respect to the brake pedal, the technician has theopportunity to select "low," "high," "soft," "hard," "fade,""pulsation," or "okay." With respect to the parking brake, thetechnician has the option of selecting "excessive travel,""inoperative," or "okay." With respect to the panel lights thetechnician has the opportunity of selecting "warning," "ABS," "rearbrake," or "okay." With respect to wheels, the technician has theopportunity to select "custom," "damaged," "locks," "mismatch," "missinglug nuts," or "okay." The technician selects an option by touching thearea of the first video display 34 at which the desired option isdisplayed. Depending on the particular options selected for each of thecategories on this inspection screen, the technician may be prompted toenter a location of the condition (Blocks 416 and 418). For example, ifthe technician selects "damaged" under the wheels category, the systemwill prompt the technician to enter the location of the damaged wheel.After the location is entered, or in the event the location is notrequired by any of selected options, the system next determines whetheror not any of the selected options requires that a reason be entered(Blocks 420 and 422). The only option which will not cause the system torequire a location or a reason is "okay." If reasons are required, thesystem requests (Block 422) that such reasons be entered. Examples ofreasons are: "part is close to end of its useful life", "addresscustomer need, convenience or request", "comply with maintenancerecommended by the vehicles original equipment manufacturer","technicians recommendation based on substantial and informedexperience".

The next screen that is presented requests (Block 428) response in thefollowing categories: hubcaps, tires, 15 MPH, and 30 MPH. Variousoptions are presented below each of these categories and the technicianis presented with the opportunity of selecting options for each of thesecategories in a manner similar to that in which the technician was ableto select options for the categories brake pedal, parking brake, warninglights, and wheels. Again, the opportunity is presented (Block 430 and432) for the technician to enter a location, if appropriate, and,similarly, the technician is requested (Blocks 434 and 436) to enterreasons for the selected options in each category, if an option otherthan okay is selected in any of the categories.

The next screen display requests (Block 438) that an option be selectedin each of the following categories: master cylinder, power booster andbrake fluid. No location will be required for any selected response tothese three categories, but the technician will be required to enterreasons if an option other than okay is selected in any of thesecategories (Blocks 440 and 442).

Next, an inspection screen with the following categories is presented:Hoses, and steel lines/fitting (Block 452). In the event the userselects options other than okay in either of these categories, thetechnician will be required to enter the location (Block 454 and 456) ofthe problem and the reasons for the option (Blocks 458 and 460).

If the technician entered "leaking," "internal leaks" and/or"intermittent pedal drop" in the master cylinder category of the mastercylinder/power booster/brake fluid inspection screen (Block 438), he/shewill be required to perform a line clamp test following the hoses andsteel lines/fittings inspection screen (Block 452). If the technician isrequired to perform the line clamp test (Block 444), a line clamp testscreen is displayed (Block 446) providing the opportunity to enterresults from the line clamp test. In the event the results are notnormal (Block 448), reasons for such results are required (Block 450).

An inspection screen with the following categories is next presented:Lugs or studs, parking brake cable, axle seals and wheel bearings (Block462, FIG. 4B). As with many of the previous categories, when non-okayoptions are selected in any of these categories, the technician will berequired to enter in the location (Block 464 and 466) of the selectedoption (i.e., problem), and the reason (Block 468 and 470) for theoption.

Next, the technician is prompted (Block 472) to enter measurements forthe brake rotors and/or drums. Determination as to whether brake rotormeasurements or brake drum measurements are to be made is determined bythe technician program based on the selected make, model and year of thevehicle being inspected. A separate inspection screen is presented foreach wheel of the vehicle being inspected, and categories for padcondition and/or shoe condition, and rotor condition and/or drumcondition, are presented, in addition to the request for rotor and/ordrum measurements. Measurements may also be taken of the brake padsand/or shoes, as needed. Options for each of the categories presented,e.g., pad conditions and rotor conditions, are selected in a mannersimilar to that described above.

Responses to, e.g., pad measurements and rotor measurements screen aremade as follows. In another embodiment, the digital measuring instrument16 may include a digital depth gauge. The digital depth gauge isutilized to input the inner and outer pad measurements by selecting(i.e., touching) an input box on the brake measurement selection screen.For example, when the inner pad measurement box is selected, the digitaldepth gauge are positioned against the inner pad. Once the digital depthgauge is against the inner pad, a button on the digital depth gauge ispressed and the measurement for the inner pad is automatically inputinto the inner pad measurement box on the brake inspection screen.Similarly, the outer pad measurement is recorded and the rotor dimensionis also recorded. A suitable digital depth gauge is available as the"Ultra Cal Mark 3" from Fred V. Fowler Company of Massachusetts.Alternatively, the pad measurements (or other measurements, such asrotor and/or drum measurements) analogous can be entered manually usingan on-screen keyboard. Once the pad dimensions and rotor dimensions arerecorded, the system will request that the technician enter reasons forthe selected option in the pad condition category, and/or the selectedoption in the rotor condition category in the event an option other thanokay is selected (Blocks 480 and 482). Note that because a separateinspection screen is presented for measurements associated with eachwheel of the vehicle, the location of the selected option for pads/shoecondition and/or rotor/drum condition is not requested.

After any reasons are entered, as required, the system determines (Block483) whether a run-out test is needed. A run out test will be requiredif the "pulsation" option is selected in the brake pedal category above(Block 414, FIG. 4A). If a run out test is required, the screen willprompt the technician to conduct the run out test and enter any resultsor reasons (Block 484). The run out test may be performed manually, asis known in the art, or may be performed using a digital dial indicator,such as the "Ultra Digit Mark 4" from Fred V. Fowler Company ofMassachusetts.

After the run out test, or in the event that no run out test isrequired, an inspection screen with the following categories ispresented: Brake shoe springs/self-adjusters, drum/disk hardware (Block486). In the event an option other than okay is selected for either thebrake shoe spring/self-adjusters category or the drum/disk hardwarecategory, the technician is required to enter into the technicianterminal the location of the selected option (i.e., problem) (Block 487and 488). The technician is also required to enter the reason for theselected option into the technician terminal in the event that an optionother than okay is selected for either of the above categories (Block490 and 492).

Next, the inspection program displays an inspection screen with thefollowing categories: calipers and wheel cylinders (Block 494). As withmany of the above-described inspection steps, in the event that anoption other than okay is selected for either of the categories, thetechnician is required to enter in a location for the option (Blocks 496and 498) as well as a reason for the option (Block 520 and 522).

Following the calipers and wheel cylinders inspection screen, theinspection results are saved (Block 524) within the first personalcomputer 38 of the technician terminal, and control is returned (Block526) to the main menu module.

Referring next to FIGS. 6A and 6B, a flow chart is shown of the stepstraversed by an exhaust inspection module employed in the embodiment ofFIG. 1. Initially (Block 600), as with the brake inspection module, theexhaust inspection module displays (Block 602, FIG. 6A) an input screenthat requests the customer name and technician ID. Next, the exhaustinspection module displays (Block 604) the customer questionnaire, alsodescribed above, and then displays (Block 606) a screen into which thetechnician enters the make, model and year of the vehicle. After theselection of the make, model and year of the vehicle, the exhaustinspection module displays (Block 608) information regarding the make,model and year of the vehicle and presents the technician with theopportunity to use the selected make, model and year, or to reelect adifferent make, model and year (Block 610).

Note that in the event the particular make, model and year of thevehicle that the technician is to inspect is not available within theexhaust inspection module, the technician is given the opportunity toenter the information on the particular make, model and year to beinspected. In this case, a make, model and year are manually entered.

After selecting (or manually entering) the make, model and year, thetechnician is presented with a screen that requests (Block 612) thelicense plate number and state, the odometer mileage and the vehicleidentification number. Note that, as in the brake inspection module, theabove-described screens (Blocks 602, 604, 606, 608, 612) may bedisplayed and responded to at the technician terminal 12, or,alternatively, may be displayed and responded to at the point of saleterminal 20. The inspection screens described hereinbelow (Blocks 614 etseq.) are preferably displayed and responded to at the technicianterminal 12.

Following the entry of the license plate, odometer and vehicleidentification number information, the technician is prompted (Block614) with a screen listing two categories: manifold and heat riser. Thetechnician is required to select an option within each of thesecategories, and in the event the option is an option other than okay,the technician is required to enter a reason for the selection of theoption (Blocks 616 and 617).

Next, the technician is presented (Block 618) with the catalyticconverter category screen. As with the previous screen, if thetechnician selects an option under the catalytic converter categoryother than okay, the technician is required to enter a reason for theselection (Blocks 620 and 621). The next screen presented (Block 622) tothe technician includes the check valve and oxygen sensor categories. Areason must be entered in the event an option other than okay isselected for either the check valve or oxygen sensor category (Blocks624 and 625). The technician is next presented (Block 626) with aninspection screen that includes exhaust pipe and tail pipe categories.In the event an option other than okay is selected for either theexhaust pipe or tail pipe, the technician is required to enter thelocation of the indicated option (i.e., problem) (Blocks 628 and 629)and is then required to enter a reason for the selected option (Blocks630 and 631).

The next inspection screen with which the technician is presented (Block632) is the muffler/resonator/glass packs screen. In the event thetechnician indicates a problem with the mufflers, resonators or glasspacts, the technician is required to enter a location of the problem(Blocks 634 and 635) and the reason for the problem (Blocks 636 and637).

Next, the technician is presented with a screen that includes thefollowing categories: Clamps and hangers (Block 638). In the event theiris a problem with either the clamps or the hangers, the technicianselects an appropriate option in the clamps and/or hangers category. Thetechnician will then be required to enter in the location of the problem(Blocks 640 and 641) and the reason for selecting the problem (Blocks642 and 643), unless the option selected for both categories is okay.The technician is then presented with an inspection screen with thefollowing categories: Rubber rings and chrome tips (Blocks 644, FIG.6B). The technician is required to select an option for each of thesecategories and in the event the option is other than okay, thetechnician is required to enter the location of the problem (Blocks 646and 647) and the reason for the problem (Blocks 648 and 649).

Next, the technician is presented (Block 650) with an inspection screenwith a flanges/gaskets category and a hardware category. The technicianis required to enter into the inspection screen an option for each ofthese categories and in the event an option other than okay is selected,the technician is required to enter the reason for the selection (Blocks652 and 653). Following the exhaust inspection, the inspection dataentered into the inspection screens is saved (Block 654) into the firstpersonal computer system within the technician terminal and control isreturned (Block 655) to the main menu module.

Referring next to FIGS. 7A and 7B, a flow chart is shown of the stepstraversed by a suspension inspection module employed in the embodimentof FIG. 1. After selection at the main menu module, the suspensioninspection module is executed (Block 700, FIG. 7A) and an informationscreen is presented (Block 702) requesting the customer name andtechnician ID. After the customer name and technician ID are input tothe suspension inspection module, the customer questionnaire, describedabove, is displayed and completed (Block 704) by the technician. Next,the make, model, and year of the vehicle are selected (Block 706) andinformation regarding the vehicle is displayed (Block 708) on the firstvideo display. The technician is then presented with an option (Block710) to use the information displayed or to re-select the make, model,and year of the vehicle. In the event the make, model, and year of thevehicle being inspected are not among the selectable makes, models oryears, the technician has the opportunity to manually enter the make,model, and year of the vehicle along with information regarding thevehicle, such as vehicle specifications and measurements. Next, thetechnician is asked (Block 712) to enter the license plate number,state, odometer mileage, and vehicle identification number for thevehicle on which the inspection is to be performed. Note that, as in thebrake inspection module, the above-described screens (Blocks 702, 704,706, 708, 712) may be displayed and responded to at the technicianterminal 12, or, alternatively, may be displayed and responded to at thepoint of sale terminal 20. The inspection screens described hereinbelow(Blocks 714 et seq.) are preferably displayed and responded to at thetechnician terminal 12.

After entry of the license plate, odometer mileage, and vehicleidentification number, the first inspection screen is displayed (Block714) on which the categories wheels, and lugs or studs are displayed.The technician is required to select an option for each of these twocategories, and in the event an option other than okay is selected thetechnician is required to enter the location of the option (i.e.,problem) (Blocks 716 and 717) and the reason that the option wasselected (Blocks 718 and 719). The next suspension inspection screendisplay lists categories relating to information gathered by thetechnician during a test drive (Block 720). The categories aresteering/handling and braking. In the event the technician selects anoption for either of these categories other than okay, the technician isrequired to enter the reasons for selecting the option (Block 722 and724).

Next, an inspection screen is displayed (Block 726) requestinginformation regarding the shocks and/or struts. Again, the technician isrequired to enter the location of the problem (Blocks 728 and 729) andthe reason for selecting the option (i.e., problem) (Blocks 730 and731), in the event the option selected is other than okay. Thetechnician is next directed to inspect the following categories:rotation of the tires/balancing of the wheels, steering and couplerbelts (Block 732). In the event an option other than okay is selected inany of the categories, the location must be entered of the problemassociated with the option selected (Block 734 and 735), and a reasonindicated for selecting the option (Block 736 and 737).

Next, an inspection screen relating to the power steering system isdisplayed (Block 738). This inspection screen has the categories ofpump, hose and fluid, if an option other than okay is selected in any ofthese categories the technician is required to enter a reason for havingselected such option (Blocks 740 and 741). The technician is thendirected to the following categories: control arm bushing, strut bearingplate, shims/cams, and engine damper (Block 742). In the event an optionother than okay is selected under any of these categories, location ofthe problem associated with the option must be indicated (Blocks 744 and745) and a reason for selecting the option must be selected (Blocks 746and 747).

The next inspection screen presented has the categories of wheelbearings, and spring/torsion bar (Block 748, FIG. 7B). As with many ofthe options above, in the event the technician selects an option otherthan okay in either of these categories the technician is required tospecify the location of the problem associated with the option (Blocks750 and 751), and the reason for selecting the option (Blocks 752 and753). The technician is next directed to inspect the ball joints (Block754) and in the event an option other than okay is selected is requiredto specify a reason for selecting the selected option (Blocks 756 and757).

Next, an inspection screen listing the following options is displayed:constant velocity/universal joint, motor mounts, and transmission mounts(Block 758). In the event an option other than okay is selected in anyof these categories the technician may be required to enter location, ifappropriate (Blocks 759 and 760), and is required to enter the reasonfor selecting the option (Blocks 761 and 762).

Next, the technician is presented with an inspection screen with thecategories of bushings, control arm, strut rod, frame, and link (Block763). Again, in the event the technician selects an option other thanokay for any of these categories, the technician will be required toenter a location for the problem associated with the option, ifappropriate (Block 764 and 765), and to specify the reasons forselecting the option (Blocks 766 and 767). The next inspection screenthat is presented to the technician includes the following categories:gear box/rack, pitman arm, center link, and idler arm (Block 768). Inthe event an option other than okay is selected in any of thesecategories the technician is required to enter the reason for selectingsuch option (Blocks 770 and 771).

Next, the suspension inspection module causes an inspection screen to bedisplayed (Block 772) requesting idler arm measurements on the vehiclebeing inspected. The technician takes these measurements in aconventional manner, or may use a digital measuring instrument analogousto the dual-action digital calipers described herein. The technician isnext presented with an inspection screen on which he/she must select anoption in each of the following categories: tie rod end/sleeves,steering damper, and track bar/bushing (Block 774). In the event anoption other than okay is selected in any of these categories thesuspension inspection module will require that the technician enter thelocation of the problem associated with the option, if appropriate(Blocks 776 and 778), and the reason for selecting the option (Blocks779 and 780).

Next, the suspension inspection module determines whether a ride heighttest needs to be performed (Block 782). This determination is made basedupon whether certain options were selected during certain of theinspection screens previously presented. Specifically, in the event anyof the following options were selected in the shock/strut category theride height test will be required: bent/damaged piston rods,broken/damaged/missing HW, dented, SAG, binding, cracked/torn/missingboot/dust C., missing, or leaking. In addition, the ride height testwill be required if any of the options were selected in the pump, hose,and/or fluid categories other than sector shaft seal leak. During theride height test, the technician will select the location of the tire atwhich ride height is to be measured, an inspection screen will bedisplayed for the selected tire, and the manufactures specificationswill be displayed in a box on the inspection screen (Block 784). Anotherbox will be displayed into which the technician is to input the measuredride height (Block 784). Typically, these ride height measurements areentered manually using an on-screen keyboard. The ride heightmeasurements are made using a conventional tool to find the center ofthe wheel, such as is available from MOOG of Missouri, and a measuringtape to measure the distance from the center of the wheel to the wheelwell. Alternatively, a digital measuring instrument, analogous to thedual action digital calipers, described herein, may be used in lieu ofconventional manual instruments in order to measure the ride height foreach tire. After each tire ride height information is measured, or inthe event the ride height test is not required, toque specifications forthe vehicle being inspected are retrieved (Block 786) from themeasurements/specifications database 26 for later use by the technician.The torque specifications are printed as a part of the inspectionreport, when it is printed as described hereinbelow. After the torquespecifications are retrieved, the suspension inspection module proceedsto save the inspection data (Block 788), input during each of theinspection screens above, and the retrieved torque specifications; andcontrol is returned to the main menu module (Block 790).

Referring next to FIG. 8, a flow chart is shown of the steps traversedby an inspection report module employed in the embodiment of FIG. 1.Following any of the inspection modules described above, the technicianmay select "print report" from the main menu screen of the Main MenuModule. When "print report" is selected (Block 800), inspection data forthe immediately preceding inspection module is retrieved (Block 802)from the first personal computer 38. Based on this inspection data, theinspection report module automatically generates (Block 804) aninspection report based on the options selected for each of thecategories on the inspection screen and control is returned (Block 806)to the main menu module. The inspection report is displayed on the firstvideo display 34 of the technician terminal 12. After such display, thetechnician has the option of printing an inspection report to therecommended/suggested services report printer 18. Generally, this reportwill then be presented to the customer/owner of the vehicle forconsideration. The inspection report indicates any repairs that arerequired, and lists an explanation for such repairs, and also indicatesany repairs that are suggested and an explanation for such repairs. Adiagram is advantageously printed on the face of the inspection reportbelow the lists of required and suggested repairs so that the customermay easily determine what parts of the inspected system are in need ofservicing or replacement. In this way, a comprehensive inspection reportis automatically generated and presented to a customer based onaccurately and systematically obtained inspection data obtained from theabove described inspection modules.

Referring next to FIG. 9, a flow chart is shown of the steps traversedby a cost estimate module employed in the embodiment of FIG. 1. Afterthe customer has elected those suggested services that he/she would liketo have performed, and authorizes the performance of the requiredservices, a cost estimate can be generated at the point of saleterminal. Note that generally the shop at which the present embodimentis utilized will not be willing to perform service on the vehicle unlessall of the required inspection items can be repaired. This is becausethe vehicle may be unsafe for operation unless these required servicesare performed.

Once the cost estimate module is selected (Block 900) at the point ofsale terminal, the inspection data for a particular vehicle is retrieved(Block 902). Such retrieval is done by searching the stored inspectiondata (stored in the customer/inspection database) based on, e.g.,customer name, vehicle license plate number, or vehicle identificationnumber. The inspection data is combined automatically with requiredparts, and the cost of such parts (Block 904). In addition, the costestimate module automatically generates an estimate for the cost ofservices associated with each of the authorized required and suggestedrepairs, and the cost estimate is displayed (Block 906) on the secondvideo display at the second personal computer. The operator of the pointof sale terminal 20 is asked by the cost estimate module to verify thedisplayed cost estimate (Block 908). In the event the operator wishes tomake changes to the displayed cost estimate he/she may indicate his/herdesire to do so, and may then enter any desired revisions to thedisplayed cost estimate (Block 910). If the operator says that theestimate is okay, a final cost estimate is generated and saved (Block912) at the point of sale terminal 20 and control is returned (Block914) in the main menu module. The cost estimate can also printed on thepoint of sale printer 22, and will generally be signed by the customerto indicate his/her authorization of the indicated repairs andassociated cost. In this way, an integrated system is provided forgenerating a cost estimate based directly on inspection data, which issystematically generated during one or more of the above describedinspection modules.

Referring next to FIG. 10, a flow chart is shown of the steps traversedby an invoicing module employed in the embodiment of FIG. 1. Afterauthorized required and suggested repairs are performed on the vehicle(Block 1000), inspection data is retrieved (Block 1002) from the firstpersonal computer system 12 (which stores the customer/inspectiondatabase 24) by an invoicing module executing on the second personalcomputer system. The inspection data is retrieved through a network thatcoupled the first personal computer to the second personal computer. Thenetwork may be a peer-to-peer network, such as Windows for Workgroupsavailable from Microsoft of Washington, or a client-server network, suchas NetWare available from Novell, Utah, such as is known in the art. Inaddition, the cost estimate generated by the cost estimate module isretrieved (Block 1004) and displayed (Block 1006). Next, in a preferredembodiment, no prompt is made for the operator to indicate that actualcosts differ from the printed estimate. Instead, the invoicing moduleautomatically proceeds to generate and save the invoice, as describedbelow (Block 1018). In an alternative embodiment, the operator of thepoint of sale terminal 20 is prompted (Block 1008) with whether theactual costs differ from the cost estimate. In the event the actual costdo differ from the cost estimate, the operator is given the opportunityto enter these revisions (Block 1010), which are subsequently comparedto the cost estimate to determine whether they exceed the cost estimateby more than is allowed by local laws and regulations (Block 1012). Inthe event the actual costs do exceed the cost estimate by more than isallowed, a warning message is displayed (Block 1014) and the operator isrequired to enter further revisions. In the event the actual costs donot exceed the estimate by more than is allowed, the operator is askedto verify that the actual cost are okay (Block 1016), and permitted toenter further revisions (Block 1010 et seq.) in the event they are not.In the event the actual costs are not different from the cost estimate,or in the event the actual costs are entered and verified as okay by theoperator of the point of sale terminal, a final invoice is generated(Block 1018) by the point of sale module, and is saved (Block 1018) tothe customer/inspection database 24. The generated final invoice canthen printed to the point of sale printer 22 and can be presented to thecustomer for payment. Following the generation of the final invoice(Block 1020), control is returned to the point of sale program, whichallows additional cost estimates or invoices to be generated for othervehicles and customers. In this way, a final invoice is systematicallygenerated by the present embodiment based upon inspection data and acost estimate for a particular vehicle.

Referring next to FIG. 11, a perspective view of a technician terminalemployed in the embodiment of FIG. 1 is shown. The technician terminal12 includes the first video display 34 mounted on top of the ruggedizedhousing 40. The ruggedized housing is preferably made from steel and ismounted on wheels or casters 46 to as to facilitate movement of thetechnician terminal within a shop by a technician. The ruggedizedhousing encloses the first personal computer 38 and provides severaldrawers 47 into which the digital measuring instrument 16 can be put forstorage. In addition, the several drawers 47 preferably contain all ofthe tools necessary to perform a specific inspection, e.g., a brakeinspection, so that the technician terminal 12 is a self-containedinspection station--containing the first personal computer, modifiedwith an inspection module, along with all of the tools needed to performthe inspection. The drawers 47 may be specifically formed withcompartments to contain the needed tools.

The first video display 34 is fitted with the touch screen interface 36,and the inspection program, which modifies the first personal computer38 is designed to accept all needed input through the touch screeninterface, thereby eliminating the need for a conventional keyboard.Advantageously, the touch screen interface provides a mechanism wherebya technician can easily input information into the technician terminalwithout the need for a clumsy and fragile keyboard. The touch screeninterface may be a pressure gauge-type touch screen available as modelnumber 7557 from IBM of New York. As an alternative to the touch screeninterface, a light pen interface may be used, such as are known in theart, or any other suitable input device, such as a keyboard, a mouse orthe like.

Referring to FIG. 12, a perspective view is shown of an alternativetechnician terminal to the technician terminal shown schematically inFIG. 1. The alternative technician terminal 12' includes the first videodisplay 34 mounted within an alternative ruggedized housing 40'. Theruggedized housing 40' is preferably made from steel and is mounted onwheels or casters 46 so as to facilitate movement of the technicianterminal within a shop by a technician. The ruggedized housing enclosesthe first personal computer 38. The first video display 34 is fittedwith the touch screen interface, as described above.

Referring next to FIG. 13, a perspective view is shown of a furtheralternative technician terminal employing a wireless remote interface.The technician terminal 12" includes the first video display 34 mountedon a support arm 1500, which is bolted to the side of a metal cart 1502.The metal cart 1502 is preferably made from steel and is mounted onwheels or casters 46 so as to facilitate movement of the metal cart 1502and the first video display 34 within a shop by a technician. The firstpersonal computer 38 is located remotely from the first video display 34and maintains communication therewith via a spread spectrum frequencyhopping radio channel 1504 (or communications channel) or the like. Onealternative to the spread spectrum frequency hopping radio channel is touse an optical channel such as an infrared bidirectional communicationschannel. Other examples of suitable communications channels employ otherlight frequencies, other radio frequencies or sound frequencies, eitheraudible or, preferably, inaudible. Preferably, the communicationschannel 1504 consists primarily of air, but may include otherelectromagnetic, optical and/or sound conductors.

The spread spectrum frequency hopping radio channel 1504 preferably hasan effective range of from between 500 and 1000 feet. As is known in theart "spread spectrum" is used to immunize a communications channel frominterference or noise, while "frequency hopping" is used to make thecommunications channel 1504 secure. The metal cart 1502 provides severalshelves 1506, 1508, 1510, and/or drawers (not shown), onto/into whichthe digital measuring instrument 16 (FIG. 1) can be put for storagealong with other common shop tools. In addition, the shelves 1506, 1508,1510 preferably contain all of the tools necessary to perform a specificinspection, e.g., a brake inspection, so that the metal cart 1202 is aself-contained inspection station--containing the first video display 34along with the digital measuring instrument 16 and all of the othertools needed to perform the inspection.

The first video display 34 includes the touch screen interface, and ispreferably a liquid-crystal-display-type video display. Alternatively,the first video display 34 may be a cathode-ray-tube-type video display,a light-emitting-diode-type display, or the like. As with the othertechnician terminal embodiments described above, the inspection programmodifies the first personal computer 38 and is designed to accept allneeded input through the touch screen interface on the first videodisplay 34 via the spread spectrum frequency hopping radio channel 1504.The spread spectrum frequency hopping radio channel 1504 is interfacedthrough the first personal computer 38 through a suitable input/outputport or ports 1512, which are preferably an interface adaptor or card,such as is readily available under the trade name CRUISELAN/ISA fromZenith Data Systems Corporation of Buffalo Grove, Ill. Alternatively,the input/output ports 1512 may be, e.g., a keyboard port and a videographics array (VGA) port, such as is commonly known in the art. Theinput/output ports 1512 are coupled to a transceiver 1514, which iscoupled to an antenna 1516. The transceiver 1514 is preferably a radiotransceiver having an output power of about 100 mW, a data transfer rateof about 1.6 Mbps, and uses a 2.4 to 2.4835 GHz frequency band. Othersuitable transceivers include, for example, optical transceivers, soundtransceivers and the like. Integral with the housing 1518 that housesthe first video display 34 is another antenna 1520 and anothertransceiver (internal), which couple the spread spectrum frequencyhopping radio channel 1504 to the first video display 34. One example ofa suitable first video display 34, including the housing 1518, theantenna 1520, and the transceiver is available under the trade nameCRUISEPAD, also from Zenith Data Systems Corporation.

Advantageously, the touch screen interface of the first video display 34provides a mechanism whereby a technician can easily input informationinto the technician terminal 12 without the need for a keyboard.(Optionally, a keyboard coupled to the first video display 34 may beused instead of or in addition to the touch screen interface.) The touchscreen interface of the above mentioned CRUISEPAD wireless remoteinterface can be actuated by either touching the surface of the firstvideo display 34, or through the use of a stylus 1522 (or pen), as isknown in the art.

Advantageously, through the use of the embodiment of FIG. 13, the firstvideo display 34 may be located in a garage or shop area, while thefirst personal computer 38 is located is a cleaner, safer, more secureenvironment, such as a nearby office. In this way, the first personalcomputer 38 can be protected from elements such as brake dust, exhaustand other smoke particles, oil particles, tire dust and othercontaminants present in the shop or garage area. Furthermore, the metalcart 1502 on which the first video display 34 is supported is relievedof the bulk of the first personal computer 38, making it lighter and/orproviding more storage room for tools.

One additional feature of the embodiment of FIG. 13 is that the firstvideo display 34 can be easily detached from its support 1500 on themetal cart 1502. Such detachment can be achieved, for example, throughthe use of hook-and-loop-type fasteners, or VELCRO fasteners, on thebottom surface of the housing 1518 of the first video display 34, and onthe top surface of the support 1500 that holds the first video display34 to the metal cart 1502. Advantageously, this detachability of thefirst video display 34 allows the technician to carry the first videodisplay 34 in his/her hands as he/she performs an inspection. The firstvideo display 34, housing 1518, antenna 1520, and transceiver,preferably weigh no more than four pounds and the housing 1518preferably has exterior dimensions of about 10.6" W×9.8" D×1.0" H at itsfront edge sloping to 2.1" H at its back edge.

Also shown in FIG. 13 is a speaker 1524, through which audible outputfrom the first personal computer 38 may be sounded. The speaker 1224functions analogously to an internal speaker (not shown) within thefirst personal computer 38 (such as are well known in the art), but islocated remotely from the first personal computer 38 and, like the firstvideo display 34, is controlled by the first personal computer 38 viathe spread spectrum frequency hopping radio interface.

Referring next to FIG. 14, a schematic view is shown of the dual-actiondigital calipers as they are used to measure the thickness of a brakerotor 1200. The calipers have two sets of points 1202, 1204 that arepositioned to measure outer surfaces. A first of the points 1202 isfixed relative to a rail 1206 that serves as the body of the calipers. Asecond of the points 1204 slides relative to the rail 1206 so as toassume various distances relative to the first of the points 1202. Thefirst and second points 1202, 1204 inwardly point in oppositedirections, i.e., toward each other, so that each of them can contact anopposing exterior surface of a structure, such as opposite sides 1210,1212 of the brake rotor 1200.

As the second point 1204 slides along the rail 1206, a distance signalis generated by a linear encoder 1208 within the calipers. The distancesignal is indicative of the distance between the first and second points1202, 1204. The distance signal may be generated using capacitiveelectronics, such as in digital calipers marketed as "Break Force" byCentral Tools of Rhode Island. While the "Break Force" calipers measureonly brake drum inner diameter, they can be modified in accordance withthe present embodiment by adding the first and second points 1202, 1204so as to measure thickness, as well as inner diameter. The distancesignal is generated within the "Brake Force" calipers by electronicsfrom Sylvac of Switzerland.

In order to take a measurement of a brake rotor 1200, the calipers arepositioned so that the first point 1202 is adjacent to and against aninterior side 1210 of the rotor 1200, and the second point 1204 isadjacent to an exterior side of the brake rotor 1200. The second point1204 is then slid along and parallel to the rail 1206 toward the firstpoint 1202 until both points 1202, 1204 are against their respectivesides 1210, 1212 of the rotor 1200. As the second point 1204 is slidablymoved, its relative distance from the first point 1202 is indicated bythe distance signal, mentioned above, and this relative distance isdisplayed on a digital display 1214. When the first and second points1202, 1204 are each against their respective opposing sides 1210, 1212of the rotor 1200, the display 1214 indicates the exact thickness of therotor (which is the exact distance between the points). The dual-actiondigital calipers are accurate to 0.001". The points 1202, 1204 arepreferably positioned about or the surfaces 1210, 1212 and the display1214 is observed. The points 1202, 1204 are then moved radially acrossthe surfaces 1210, 1212 in order to locate the thinnest area of thebrake rotor 1200, as indicated on the display 1214. In this way, thetechnician assures that any "grooves" in the brake rotor 1200 aredetected and used to measure the rotor's thickness. A transmit button1216 is then depressed and the thickness of the rotor, which isdisplayed on the display 1214, is transmitted to the first personalcomputer 38. The first personal computer 38 automatically enters themeasurement into the brake measurements inspection screen, describedabove, thereby eliminating the need for any manual entry of themeasurement, and as a part of the generation of the inspection reportcompares the brake measurement with a specified brake measurement fromthe specifications/measurements database 26. In the event the brakemeasurement deviates from the specified brake measurement by more than aprescribed amount, the rotor is indicated on the inspection report as arequired repair. Note that the brake rotor/drum measurements do not, inthe present embodiment, result in "suggested" repairs, i.e., they areeither okay or they are required repairs. This process is repeated foreach rotor on the vehicle being inspected. In this way, precisemeasurements of rotor thickness are made, digitally transmitted to thetechnician terminal 12, automatically entered into an appropriateinspection screen and compared with specified brake measurements.

Referring next to FIG. 15, a schematic view is shown of the dual-actiondigital calipers as they are used to measure the inner diameter of abrake drum. A switch 1316 is used to select the mode in which the dualaction digital calipers operate, i.e., whether they measure thickness orinner diameter. The calipers have an additional set of points comprisinga third point 1302 and a forth point 1304, which are positioned tomeasure inner surfaces, and inner diameter in particular. The third andforth points 1302, 1304 outwardly point in opposite directions, i.e.,away from each other, so that each of them can contact an opposinginterior surface of a structure, such as opposite sides 1310, 1312 ofthe interior annular surface of the brake drum 1300. The third point1302 is oriented to point in a direction opposite from that of the firstpoint 1202, and along with the first point 1202 is mounted to the railupon a fixed caliper that fixes the position of the first and thirdpoints 1202, 1302 relative to the rail 1206. The forth point 1304 isoriented to point in a direction opposite from that of the second point1204, and in the same direction as the first point 1202. The second andforth points 1204, 1304 are mounted to the rail upon a slidable caliperthat allows them to slide, or move linearly, relative to the first andthird points 1202, 1302. The third of the points 1302 is orientedoppositely from the first point 1202.

As mentioned above, the forth point 1304 slides along the rail 1206, ina manner similar to the second point 1204, so as to assume variousdistances relative to the third point 1302. As the forth point 1304slides along the rail 1206, the distance signal is generated, asexplained above. Because the distance signal is preferably indicative ofthe relative distance between the first and second points 1202, 1204, acorrection factor, e.g., 2.4 inches, is, in practice, added to thedistance indicated by the distance signal in order to determine thedistance between the third and fourth points 1302, 1304. The correctionfactor can either be added by electronics within the calipers, when theswitch 1316 is positioned to indicate that inner diameter is to bemeasured, or can be added by the first personal computer in response tothe brake inspection module. The description below assumes that thecorrection factor is added by electronics within the calipers.

In order to take a measurement of a brake drum 1300, the calipers arepositioned so that the third point 1302 is adjacent to and against afirst side of the drum 1310, and the fourth point 1304 is adjacent to asecond side of the brake drum 1312. The fourth point 1304 is then slidalong the rail 1206 away from the fourth point 1302 until both points1302, 1304 are against their respective opposite interior sides 1310,1312 of the drum 1300. As the fourth point 1304 is slidably moved, itsrelative distance from the third point 1202 is determined (by adding thecorrection factor to the relative distance indicated by the distancesignal) and is displayed on the digital display 1214. When the third andfourth points 1302, 1304 are each against their respective sides 1310,1312 of the drum 1300, the display 1214 indicates the exact diameter ofthe drum (which is the exact distance between the points 1302, 1304).The transmit button 1216 is then depressed and the distance displayed onthe display 1214 is transmitted to the first personal computer 38. Thefirst personal computer 38 automatically enters the measurement into thebrake measurements inspection screen, as described above, and as a partof the generation of the inspection report compares the brakemeasurement with a specified brake measurement from thespecifications/measurements database 26. This process is repeated foreach drum on the vehicle being inspected. In this way, precisemeasurements of drum diameter can be made, using the same tool as isused to make rotor thickness measurements. The drum diameter isdigitally transmitted to the technician terminal 12 and is automaticallyentered into an appropriate inspection screen.

While the invention herein disclosed has been described by means ofspecific embodiments and applications thereof, numerous modificationsand variations could be made thereto by those skilled in the art withoutdeparting from the scope of the invention set forth in the claims.

What is claimed is:
 1. An integrated automotive diagnosis, repair andinvoicing system comprising:a technician terminal including means fordisplaying a plurality of inspection screens, means for inputtinginspection results, and means for generating an inspection report; apoint-of-sale terminal coupled to the technician terminal, thepoint-of-sale terminal including means for generating a cost estimatereport in response to the generation of the inspection report; a printercoupled to the point-of-sale terminal for printing the cost estimatereport; and a database system coupled to the technician terminal and tothe point-of-sale terminal, the data base system comprising:aspecifications database comprising vehicle specifications; thetechnician terminal including means for comparing the vehiclespecifications with the inspection results, and means for generating theinspection report in response to the means for comparing.
 2. The systemof claim 1 wherein the point of sale terminal further comprises meansfor generating an invoice report.
 3. The system of claim 2 wherein saidpoint-of-sale terminal comprises:a second video display, and a secondcomputer coupled to the second video display, the second computer beingmodified with a point-of-sale program comprising means for generatingsaid invoice report.
 4. The integrated automotive diagnosis, repair andinvoicing system of claim 1 wherein said database system furthercomprises:a customer/inspection database, the technician terminalincluding means for storing an inspection record into thecustomer/inspection database in response to the generating of theinspection report.
 5. The integrated automotive diagnosis, repair andinvoicing system of claim 4 wherein said database system furthercomprises:a parts catalog database comprising part costs, the means forgenerating the cost estimate report generating the cost estimate reportin response to the part costs.
 6. The integrated automotive diagnosis,repair and invoicing system of claim 4 wherein said data base systemfurther comprises:an inspection guidelines database comprisinginspection guidelines, said technician terminal including means forselectively displaying the inspection guidelines.
 7. The system of claim1 further comprising:a measuring device coupled to the technicianterminal, the measuring device including means for taking measurementsfrom a vehicle and means for communicating the measurements to thetechnician terminal.
 8. The system of claim 7 wherein said means forcommunicating includes an electrical conductor coupled between saidtechnician terminal and said measuring device.
 9. The system of claim 7wherein said means for communicating includes a linear encoder includingmeans for generating an distance signal indicative of the distancebetween a first point and a second point.
 10. The integrated automotivediagnosis, repair and invoicing system of claim 1 wherein saidtechnician terminal comprises:a first video display; and a firstcomputer coupled to the first video display, the first computer beingmodified with an inspection program.
 11. The system of claim 10 whereinsaid technician terminal further comprises:a housing enclosing saidfirst computer; and a plurality of wheels mounted to said housing. 12.The system of claim 10 wherein said technician terminal furthercomprises:a touch screen interface coupled to said first video display,said touch screen interface including means for detecting an approximatelocation on the first video display at which touching of the first videodisplay occurs.
 13. The integrated automotive diagnosis, repair andinvoicing system of claim 10 wherein said technician terminal furthercomprises:a first transceiver coupled to the first computer; a secondtransceiver coupled to the first video display; and a communicationschannel coupled between the first and second transceivers, wherein thefirst video display is coupled to the first computer through thecommunications channel.
 14. The integrated automotive diagnosis, repairand invoicing system of claim 13 wherein said communications channelincludes air.
 15. The integrated automotive diagnosis, repair andinvoicing system of claim 14 wherein said first and second transceiversare radio frequency transceivers and wherein said communications channelis a radio frequency communications channel.
 16. An integratedautomotive diagnosis, repair and invoicing system comprising:a firstterminal located in a garage area where a vehicle may be parked forinspection, said first terminal including first computer means forprocessing and displaying a plurality of inspection screens, input meansfor inputting inspection results, and report means for generating aninspection report; a second terminal networked to the first terminallocated within a point-of-sale area proximate the garage area; adatabase system networked to the first and second terminals comprisinginspection guidelines, vehicle specifications, and memory storage;program control means for controlling and coordinating the operation ofsaid first and second terminals and database system in a way that:(a)prompts a user of the first terminal to identify a vehicle to beinspected by make, model number and year, and further prompts the userwhat to inspect on the identified vehicle, requires the user to inputinspection results, compares the inspection results to vehiclespecifications, and generates the inspection report based on differencesbetween the inspection results and vehicle specifications, theinspection report including a list of (i) mandatory repairs that must bemade to correct problems with the vehicle that are not withinspecification, and (ii) recommended repairs that address problems thatare still within specification but which are within a specifiedtolerance of not being in specification, and (b) in response to theinspection report, allows a user of the first terminal to selectivelyretrieve repair information from the database system that prompts theuser of the first terminal how to perform repairs indicated by theselection data for the identified vehicle.
 17. The diagnosis, repair,and invoicing system of claim 16 wherein said database systemcomprises:an inspection guideline database comprising inspectionguidelines and procedures, a specification database comprising vehiclespecifications, a customer/inspection database comprising memory storagewherein inspection reports may be stored, and a parts catalog databasecomprising part numbers and part costs associated with the mandatory,recommended repairs, and completed repairs.
 18. The diagnosis, repair,and invoicing system of claim 17 further including digital caliperscoupled to said first terminal, said digital calipers including meansfor converting a linear measurement made with said calipers into adigital signal, and means for sending said digital signal directly tothe first terminal without having to manually key in numbers associatedwith said measurement.
 19. In an integrated diagnosis, repair andinvoicing system, a method including:selecting a make, model and year ofa vehicle using a first computer system; retrieving ameasurement/specification for the vehicle, having been selected, from ameasurements/specifications database; prompting a user of the firstcomputer system to conduct an inspection of the vehicle and to enter aninspection result into the first computer system; comparing theinspection result with the measurement/specification, having beenretrieved, so as to determine whether the inspection result is outside afirst prescribed tolerance of the measurement/specification, having beenretrieved; generating an inspection report that indicates whether theinspection result is outside the first prescribed tolerance of themeasurement/specification; communicating the inspection report to asecond computer system; and generating, within the second computersystem, a cost estimate report in the event the inspection result isoutside the first prescribed tolerance of the measurement/specification,the cost estimate report indicating an expected cost of repair.
 20. Themethod of claim 19 wherein said selecting of said make model and yearincludes touching a first video display having a touch screen interface.21. The method of claim 19 including:entering said inspection resultusing a digital measuring instrument.
 22. The method of claim 19 whereinsaid comparing of said inspection result with saidmeasurement/specification having been retrieved includes comparing saidinspection result with said measurement/specification having beenretrieved so as to determine whether the inspection result is outside asecond prescribed tolerance of the measurement/specification having beenretrieved, the second prescribed tolerance being indicative of a repairthat is required, and said first prescribed tolerance being indicativeof a repair that is suggested.
 23. The method of claim 22 wherein saidgenerating of said inspection report includes generating said inspectionreport having an indication of whether a repair is required orsuggested.
 24. An integrated inspection system comprising:a videodisplay; a computer coupled to the video display, the computer includingmeans for causing display information to be displayed on the videodisplay; input means for inputting input information into the computer,the input means being coupled to the computer; a database system coupledto the computer, the data base system comprising:a specificationsdatabase comprising specifications, the computer including means forcomparing the specifications with the input information, and means forgenerating an inspection report in response to the means for comparing;and a repair manual database comprising instructions for making selectedrepairs, the computer including means for signalling the video displayto display the instructions on the video display.
 25. The integratedinspection system of claim 24 wherein said database system furthercomprises an inspection guideline database comprising inspectionguidelines, said computer including means for selectively displaying theinspection guidelines on said video display.
 26. The integratedinspection system of claim 24 wherein said database system furthercomprises:a customer/inspection database, the computer including meansfor storing an inspection record into the customer/inspection databasein response to the inputting of the input information.
 27. Theintegrated inspection system of claim 26 further including storage meansfor storing an inspection tool.
 28. The integrated inspection system ofclaim 27 wherein said input means comprises an inspection tool, saidinspection tool including means for taking a measurement and forcommunicating the measurement to said computer.
 29. The integratedautomotive diagnosis system of claim 24 further comprising:a firsttransceiver coupled to the computer; a second transceiver coupled to thevideo display; and a communications channel coupled between the firstand second transceivers, wherein the video display is coupled to thecomputer through the communications channel.
 30. The integratedautomotive diagnosis system of claim 29 wherein said communicationschannel includes air.
 31. The integrated automotive diagnosis system ofclaim 30 wherein said first and second transceivers are radio frequencytransceivers and wherein said communications channel is a radiofrequency communications channel.
 32. The integrated inspection systemof claim 24 wherein said input means includes means for taking ameasurement and for communicating the measurement to said computer. 33.The integrated inspection system of claim 32 wherein said input meanscomprises dual-action digital calipers including means for measuring aninner diameter, and means for measuring a thickness.
 34. The integratedinspection system of claim 33 wherein said dual-action digital calipersinclude a linear encoder including means for generating a distancesignal indicative of a first distance between a first point and a secondpoint.
 35. The integrated inspection system of claim 34 including meansfor adding a correction factor to the first distance, a sum of thecorrection factor added to the first distance being equal to a seconddistance between a third and a fourth point.
 36. The integratedinspection system of claim 35 wherein said means for measuring thicknesscomprises said first and second points, and wherein said means formeasuring inner diameter comprises said third and fourth points.
 37. Anintegrated inspection system for self-propelled vehicles comprising:avideo display; a computer coupled to the video display, the computerincluding means for causing display information to be displayed on thevideo display; input means for inputting input information into thecomputer, the input means being coupled to the video display; a firsttransceiver coupled to the computer; a second transceiver coupled to thevideo display; a communications channel coupled between the first andsecond transceivers, wherein the video display is coupled to thecomputer through the communications channel; a first housing enclosingthe computer; a second housing enclosing the video display; a databasesystem coupled to the computer, the data base system comprising:aspecifications database comprising vehicle specifications, the computerincluding means for comparing the specifications with the inputinformation, and means for generating an inspection report in responseto the means for comparing.
 38. The integrated inspection system ofclaim 37 wherein said input means comprises an inspection tool, saidinspection tool including means for taking a measurement from saidself-propelled vehicle and for communicating the measurement to saidcomputer.